As soon as Rebecca Junell graduated from Kettering University, she wanted to work with NASA. That she did! She currently works as a mechanical/test engineer in John C. Stennis Space Center in Mississippi, where there are 3 women working with 25 men.
Rebecca Junell (Source: Kettering University)
It has always been her dream to work with NASA ever since she was young. She often asked her father questions that both of them worked to find answers on. This led her to pursue her interest in science. Ever since she was a child, she always loved solving problems and answering questions.
Junell said, “NASA is somewhere I plan to stay for a while. Here I have the opportunity to use my degree, to be useful, to really have a good career and keep growing. This is a position where I’ve been able to draw on a majority of the concepts I’ve learned at Kettering. There is always an opportunity to stretch into something new.”
As one of the few women who work in her field, Junell encourages young girls to pursue their interests in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). She advises them to often talk to girls and encourage them about how any STEM topic can be related to any everyday concept.
In her own words? She said, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re interested in something, go ahead and ask a teacher, ask a mentor. Read. Research.”
In her pursuit in her career, she has had many opportunities such as testing rocket engines before they launch, analyze and review instruments and have engines ready to be reused for NASA’s next grand adventure.
Source: 3blmedia.com
